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Week 5 of Summer Botanical Watercolor 2024



Steps to Paint Loose Florals:

  1. Gather Supplies: Use good-quality watercolor paper, a set of watercolor paints, brushes (preferably round or a filbert ), and a palette to mix paint on.

  2. Choose Your Colors: Select a limited palette of colors to keep the painting harmonious. Choose a mix of light and dark shades for depth.

  3. Start with a Light Wash: If you want lightly sketch the outlines of your flowers and foliage with a water-soluble pencil or skip this step for an even looser feel. Then, use a wet brush to create a light wash for the initial flower shapes.

  4. Apply Color Wet-on-Wet: Wet the area where you want to add color. Drop in paint, allowing it to blend and flow. This creates soft edges and spontaneous shapes.

  5. Build Layers: Once the first layer is dry, add more intense colors for shadows and details, using a dry brush technique or a slightly damp brush for more control.

  6. Add Details Sparingly: Use a fine brush for delicate details, but keep them minimal. The goal is to suggest rather than delineate every petal.

  7. Embrace Imperfection: Let colors bleed into each other and don’t worry about precise shapes. The beauty of loose florals lies in their organic feel.

  8. Finish with Focal Points: Add a few darker areas to create contrast and draw the viewer’s eye.

Why Paint Loose Florals?

  1. Expressive Style: Loose florals capture the essence and beauty of flowers without getting bogged down in details, making them more expressive.

  2. Freedom in Technique: Watercolor’s fluidity allows for creative exploration, encouraging you to let go and experiment with colors and shapes.

  3. Quick and Enjoyable: Loose florals are often quicker to paint, making the process more enjoyable and less stressful.

  4. Versatility: This style can be used for various applications, from greeting cards to wall art, making it a valuable skill.

Remember, practice is key! Enjoy the process and allow your unique style to develop over time.









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